Iceland based composer, instrumentalist and songwriter Ari creates charming, enchanting, vivid sonic tapestries which incorporate traditional Nordic sounds with more modern pop aesthetics.

One thing is for sure, his new album Radikoj sounds like nothing else I have heard before; including other projects which incorporated traditional Nordic instrumentation. Ari has created something truly distinct and sonically refreshing.

Radikoj comes from the Esperanto word for roots and is the second album in a trilogy. The first album in the series, Fræ, takes it name from the Esperanto word for seeds. Although the final album of this trilogy has yet to be named, the underlying theme focuses on growth.

From the infectious melodies to the positive, uplifting vibes to the refreshing blend of traditional and modern styles, Radikoj is a listening experience best enjoyed in full. From beginning to end (10 tracks), each song transitions smoothly to the next without interruption to the enticing, ambient soundscapes that make these sounds so appealing.

Getting his start as a drummer in a Nirvana cover band, over time Ari became a master of his craft and now composes and writes solo in an eclectic mix of musical styles. His grasp of traditional Icelandic instrumentation and his understanding of pop melodies allows Radikoj to appeal to much wider audience.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Ari about the new release, technology, challenges as an indie musician and more.

Full Q&A with links and music below

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

I’m from Reykjavik the capitol of Iceland. This album is quite folksy, alt country-ish. The music was supposed to sound quite old fashioned with modern lyrics. Tried to use instrumentation that is now that common today.

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

Well the plan is to make a trilogy of albums and then call it quits. This is the second album in the trilogy. So the motivation is to try to finish what I started. 

A big motivation for me is that my 7 year old daughter loves my music. However my 3 year old hates it so I’m also trying to win her over!!

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

The first one is called “Fræ” (means seeds in English). That one is in Icelandic and is synth and electric guitar driven indie pop/rock. This one is in English and is called “Radikoj” (means Roots in Esperanto). So you can see where I’m going with this….

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this over saturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

Well there are obviously that it is so over saturated, lots of stuff out there so it’s hard to be heard sometimes. However I love being able to promote my stuff and connect with people in the comfort of my own home (sometimes while watching Netflix).

What was the last song you listened to?

The last song I listened to was “The girls from the streets” by Scott Walker. I’ve been listening to him a lot recently since he passed away, he is one of my favorites.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Vinyl all the way. However I sold most of my vinyl collection to help finance the album. So there were definitely some sacrifices made. Hopefully I won’t regret it some day.

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why? 

I mostly use Spotify, just because I find it most convenient. I also like to watch old concerts and stuff on Youtube.

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

The best place to connect with me is on twitter https://twitter.com/AriGudmundsson  

Also if peope want to buy stuff so I can buy back my record collection I’m on bandcamp as well https://arimusic2.bandcamp.com/

And obviously both my albums are on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/1qsIegXhwl57PqtOQBxSGV?si=eShg654oRhOMIF02gz5gDw as well as all the other streaming services.  

Anything else before we sign off?

Just hope that people will listen to my music and I appreciate a follow on Spotify and twittter. Take care!